This test is a preferred screening test for patients suspected to have an autoimmune blistering disorder of the skin or mucous membranes (pemphigus). This test aids in the diagnosis of pemphigus. The antibody levels can be used to monitor the effectiveness of drug treatment.

Gold serum separator (SST) tube

Immediately following collection, thoroughly mix sample by gently inverting 5 times

1. Allow sample to clot for a minimum of 30 minutes
2. Spin within two (2) hours of sample collection
3. Transfer serum to a Transfer vial/tube with cap - 12mL (LabCorp)
4. Freeze

Transfer vial/tube with cap - 12mL (LabCorp)

Red serum vial/tube - 5 mL

Frozen (preferred) - 14 days

Ambient - 8 hours

Refrigerated - NO

• Freeze/thaw cycles - stable x3

• Bacterial contamination
• Hemolysis or Lipemia

Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA)

See report

Pemphigus diseases involve an autoimmune response primarily targeting desmoglein (Dsg) 1 and 3, which are cadherin-type transmembrane adhesion molecules. These desmogleins, in conjunction with desmocollins, play a crucial role in maintaining the cohesion between epidermal keratinocytes and are connected internally to the intermediate filament network through various plakins.

Pemphigus foliaceus (PF) is characterized by IgG autoantibodies against Dsg1, resulting in blistering limited to the upper skin, with no evident involvement of mucous membranes. On the other hand, pemphigus vulgaris (PV) primarily targets Dsg3 as the major autoantigen, but approximately 50% to 60% of patients also develop additional autoantibodies against Dsg1, leading to significant mucous membrane involvement.